Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. target al-Shabaab

In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia’s continued efforts to weaken al-Shabaab, U.S. forces conducted an airstrike in the vicinity of Jilib, Middle Juba Region, Somalia, on April 9, 2019.

Airstrikes highlight the U.S. and Somali forces commitment to a strategy that supports the Federal Government of Somalia and its ability to advance economic development, governance, and their military institutions. Airstrikes are conducted in compliance with the law of armed conflict.

“Continued pressure on the al-Shabaab network is critical to progress,” said U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Gregg Olson, U.S. Africa Command director of operations. “Our assistance complements the Federal Government of Somalia’s efforts to create stability and a better future for the Somali people.”

At this time, it is assessed this airstrike killed one (1) terrorist.

Currently, we assess no civilians were injured or killed as a result of this airstrike. When warranted, processes and procedures exist that allow for additional information to inform post-strike analysis.

The Federal Government of Somalia and partner forces continue to make incursions into territory formerly controlled by al-Shabaab. Somalia remains key to the East Africa security environment, and its long-term stability is important to advancing U.S. interests in the region.

U.S. Africa Command will continue to work with its partners to transfer the responsibility for long-term security in Somalia from AMISOM to the Federal Government of Somalia and its Member States.  In support of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. forces will use all effective and appropriate methods to assist in the protection of the Somali people, including partnered military counter-terror operations with the Federal Government of Somalia, AMISOM, and Somali National Army forces.